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Hikes and Mics PodcastAuthor: Ivan
Hikes & Mics is where the trail meets the conversation. Each week, host Ivan Orozco brings together hikers, backpackers, and outdoor adventurers to share the stories, lessons, and inspiration theyve found in the great outdoors. From life-changing summits to quiet moments on local trails, our guests open up about how nature has shaped their journeysphysically, mentally, and spiritually. Every episode blends thoughtful storytelling with a dash of fun, closing out with our signature This or That: Hiking Edition lightning round. Whether youre a weekend wanderer, a long-distance thru-hiker, or someone who simply loves the outdoors, this podcast is your campfire circle for connection, community, and adventure. New episodes drop every Mondayplus occasional bonus episodes on Fridays. Lace up your boots, plug in your headphones, and join us on the trail. Language: en-us Genres: Hobbies, Leisure, Places & Travel, Society & Culture Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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Hiking the Grand Canyon Mid-Radiation: Alec Sills-Trausch on Surviving Cancer & Chasing Adventure
Episode 16
Monday, 27 April, 2026
Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a cancer diagnosis becomes the spark that launches a full-time outdoor adventure career? This week on Hikes and Mics, I sit down with Alec — travel writer, photographer, and the force behind Explore with Alec, for one of the most honest and inspiring conversations we've had on the show. Alec is a two-time cancer survivor and bone marrow transplant recipient whose brush with mortality completely redefined his relationship with the outdoors. From hiking across the Grand Canyon mid-radiation to summiting Mount Whitney on a whim, he turned adversity into a life built around adventure.In this episode, we talk about his first post-treatment backpacking trip with his dad in Sedona, why the hardest places to reach are often the most worth protecting, and what it's really like to build a business around the outdoors — late nights, protein bar dinners, and the Enumclaw Taco Bell included.Alec also takes us inside his most unforgettable wildlife encounters — from coastal brown bears in Alaska to mountain gorillas in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park — and shares the networking tip that changed how he lands major clients like National Geographic Travel.Plus — we break down the biggest barriers keeping people out of nature and what creators like Alec are doing to close that gap. 🐻🎒Episode Links:Alec on InstagramAlec on YouTubeExplore with Alec websiteThis episode was Produced by Jordyn Smith, follow her on Instagram @jordyn.journeysFollow us on Instagram, @HikesandmicsThis episode's music was created by Ketsa, follow him on Instagram @Ketsamusic AllTrails+I'm excited to share that I’m now a Trailheads Ambassador for AllTrails+! If you love exploring the outdoors, AllTrails+ is your ultimate adventure companion. Get offline maps, real-time wrong-turn alerts, and trail previews to help you hike smarter and safer. Plus, with 3D maps and deeper trail insights, planning your next trek has never been easier.Try AllTrails+ free for 7 days, and when you sign up using my referral link, you’ll get 30% off your AllTrails+ membership!Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)Ursa Minor Outfitters - Inspired by the outdoors, Created by local artists Go check them at www.ursaminoroutfitters.com and don’t forget to enter the promo code HikesMics10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order.
